What if your furry friend starts wagging his tail the moment you mention “treat?” Join the club Premium Feeders. Just like us, our dogs love their morning coffee. It’s important to offer our dogs healthy and tasty snacks, just as we wouldn’t eat a whole cup of sugar each day.

Let’s first talk about the ingredients. Have you ever looked back at a dog treat package? It may look like an experiment in chemistry gone wrong. Do not be alarmed! Making homemade goodies is as simple as pie. Consider simple options like peanut butter (make it xylitolfree), pumpkin purée, or sweet potatoes. These ingredients not only taste great but are also packed with nutrition.

Now here’s an interesting idea: why don’t you make the treat-time an adventure. Imagine that your dog is on a hunt for treats around the home. Not only will this stimulate their brains, but it makes snacking fun.

Before you start baking, stop and think. Always remember that moderation is important. You can easily consume too many calories from healthy snacks if you don’t watch out. Fido can have a biscuit or two every so often, but not more than that.

Have you tried frozen treats before? The frozen treats will be perfect on those hot summer days when you dog is melting into the sidewalk. Blend plain yogurt and berries or bananas, then freeze them in ice trays. Voila! They’ll be drooling over these doggy popsicles.

Let’s talk about those puppy-dog eyes that say, “I haven’t eaten for days” after dinner. It’s difficult to resist but you can try using veggies occasionally as treats. Carrot slices or cucumbers can be very satisfying to dogs, and are much healthier than many store-bought products.

If you prefer to buy over bake, (there is no judgment here!) then this article is for you. Watch out for labels that state real meat is the first ingredient. They should also have minimal additives and preservatives. You should always take the time to look at what is going into your dog’s stomach.

Have you ever considered training sessions that are more than just sit and stay routines? To keep these sessions exciting, include different types of rewards such as playtime or belly rubbings along with the tasty morsels.

Just a little food, some love and perhaps a couple of treats is all they need. The next time you think about spoiling your pet (in the most loving way), don’t forget that nourishing doesn’t necessarily mean boring.

Finally–oops. I almost forgot to mention that. But seriously, giving healthy treats to your dog is all a matter of balance, creativity, and avoiding any guilt-inducing looks from behind the table.